Reason Behind Why Knicks Didn’t Want Clippers’ Paul George?

By | Bullscore 23 Jun, 2023

Paul George, an American professional basketball player for Los Angeles Clippers is up for trade but because of some reason, the New York Knicks have declined the deal.

Following the NBA Draft 2023, L.A. made some trade decisions regarding their second-best player. Considering the weaknesses that were exposed during this year’s playoff run, New York appeared to be a suitable destination. However, in the end, the Knicks decided not to go through with it.

Everyone was wondering about the reason behind it and it didn’t take long for it to come out.

“Multiple league insiders this week expressed doubts about what return value the team could get for him, if the Clippers are truly motivated to deal him, and believed a top draft pick in exchange for George was not within range,” Andrew Greif and Broderick Turner of Los Angeles Times reported this week.

“Those doubts, the sources said, centered on his history of injuries and contract status. After some internal discussions, the Knicks have become hesitant about acquiring George.

“The Knicks also think George’s representatives will ask for a contract extension. He’s due to earn $45.6 million next season and $48.8 million the following season if he exercises his option.”

While it’s reasonable that the Knicks were hesitating about acquiring George, their stance doesn’t represent the entire league.

Two other teams have shown slime interest in acquiring George. However, it remains uncertain if any concrete deals will actually happen. George’s health has always been a major concern, as he played in 56 games this past season, which was his highest since the 2018-19 season.

When George is healthy and performing at his best, he is considered one of the most versatile players in the league, contributing on both offense and defense. However, his health concerns always come into play.

Will other potential suitors in the future be deterred by these health concerns, similar to the way the Knicks were this week? We will soon find out the answer to that question.